This toy is one of several endorsed by Marianne Szymanski, founder and principal of the consumer research and testing firm, Toy Tips, Inc. Toy Tips is an independent research and consulting firm that uses standard scientific and academic testing methods to report objective information and findings on toys. The firm's objective is to provide independent, unbiased consumer information about toys that stimulate developmental growth for children of various ages, skill levels, and special circumstances. According to Szymanski's website, Toy Tips has tested more than 34,000 toys and juvenile products from 900 manufacturers since its inception in 1991. Studies are conducted at The Toy Research Institute and at over 500 Toy Tips test sites worldwide. Szymanski's influence in the consumer information business is far and wide. Recommendations and results of her studies have been seen on "Good Morning America", Oprah, FOX, and CNN. They have also been featured in the New York Times, USA TODAY, Good Housekeeping, Parenting Magazine, Parents Magazine, Ladies' Home Journal and in over 1,800 local newspapers across the country. In addition, from 1992-1998, Szymanski was the resident toy consultant on ABC's "Good Morning America," and logged 53 on-air segments. To date, over 20 million copies of Toy Tips퉌� Magazine, launched in 1996, have been distributed at Toys 'R Us, Target, Jiffy Lube, Hilton Hotels and children's hospitals in the USA and Canada. Recently renamed, "Kid Tips Magazine," the publication has grown to include research on parenting, child safety, and juvenile product reviews. Szymanski began her toy career as a retail sales representative for an international toy manufacturer. She holds degrees in marketing and psychology.